The Marcos Varela, San Ygnacio Project Ft. Emilio Modeste, Micheal Ode and Jalen Baker

Tue, Feb 03

Internationally celebrated bassist Marcos Varela is a true virtuoso of both acoustic and electric bass. Hailed as a "top bass player in the industry" by the legendary Ron Carter, Varela's artistry has resonated across the globe. With a career rich in accolades—including honors from YoungArts, Creative Capital, Mid Atlantic Arts and South Arts’ Jazz Road grant—he’s not just a musician but a luminary composer, producer, and bandleader. A native of Houston, Texas, and an alumnus of the famed High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, Varela sharpened his craft at The New School in NYC, where he now serves as a professor. His expertise extends to coaching the esteemed Herbie Hancock Ensemble and teaching at Montclair State University where he holds a bass studio and teaches a masters improv ensemble. Varela's illustrious collaborations read like a who’s-who of jazz legends: Gary Bartz, Ingrid Jensen, Billy Hart, Eddie Henderson, Geri Allen, Nasheet Waits, The Mingus Big Band, Jason Moran, and even crossover icons like Leslie Odom Jr., Keith David and The Last Poets. He’s lead bands that have graced iconic stages, from Jazz á Liège in Belgium, Theatro Arriaga Antzokia in Bilbao, Spain, Theatro Angela Peralta, in Mexico City and the Kennedy Center with Vincent Gardner’s Jazz Houston, where he performed at Duke Ellington’s 125th birthday celebration. As a bandleader, Varela’s debut album, San Ygnacio, earned high praise, with Carter calling his work "essential to the scene." His projects continue to push boundaries, with recent releases like "One Mind" and "Illumination" showcasing his innovative spirit and versatility. Whether leading an all-star band or laying down grooves for jazz giants, Varela’s performances are electrifying, heartfelt, and unmissable. Our kitchen and bar will be open, serving up chef-crafted dishes and handcrafted cocktails to make your night complete. Come hungry, the food’s as good as the music. See you at the show!